Norman Cordon American opera singer, bass-baritone Date of Birth: 20.01.1904 Country: USA

1. Biography of Norman Cordon
2. Early Life and Education
3. Operatic Career
4. Concerts and Radio Performances
5. Personal Life and Hobbies
6. Legacy and Death

Biography of Norman Cordon

Norman Cordon was an American opera singer, known for his brilliant performances and versatile talent. With his charm and charisma, he gained deserved popularity on concert and opera stages, leaving behind an extensive discography.

Early Life and Education

Norman Cordon was born on January 20, 1904, in Washington, North Carolina, into a well-known family in the South. He received his first vocal lessons in a boys' choir, where his young soprano voice amazed audiences long before it developed into a deep and resonant bass-baritone. His passion for music continued at the University of North Carolina, where he played the saxophone and sang in a male quartet. After completing college, Cordon decided to dedicate himself to serious music and became a student at the Nashville Conservatory of Music, studying under Gaetano de Luca and later Hadley Outland.

Operatic Career

Cordon's opera career began by chance. One evening, he attended a party where he was asked to sing. Among the guests was someone who was so impressed by his voice that they arranged an audition for him. This led to his debut performance with the Chicago Opera Association. In the following season, he joined the Metropolitan Opera, where the management, during the spring season, aimed to introduce the most promising young artists to the audience. Cordon's instant success with both critics and the public was so remarkable that he was immediately offered a lucrative contract and became a member of the opera company. From that moment on, he performed almost as frequently as all the other artists in the company. In his first four years at the Metropolitan Opera, he appeared on stage 297 times in 43 roles, setting a unique record. Soon, Cordon gained a reputation as one of the most talented and sought-after opera singers of his time.

Concerts and Radio Performances

In addition to his operatic performances, Norman Cordon frequently appeared with major symphony orchestras, participated in music festivals in the United States and Canada, and gave solo concerts from coast to coast. His performances were often broadcasted on the radio, further expanding his reach and audience.

Personal Life and Hobbies

Outside of the opera stage, Cordon enjoyed playing golf and pursued woodworking as a hobby. He often spent his summer vacations in his home in North Carolina, where he added African-American spirituals to his rich repertoire.

Legacy and Death

Norman Cordon passed away on March 1, 1964, at the age of 60. He left behind a lasting legacy as one of the most talented and beloved operatic performers of his generation.